Lib Dems to force vote on creating new customs union with EU

The leader of the Lib Dems, Ed Davey, is hoping to drum up support among pro-EU MPs. Photograph: House of Commons

The Liberal Democrats are forcing a vote in parliament on creating a new customs union to put pressure on Labour MPs to take a more pro-EU stance.

Ed Davey’s party is writing to all Labour MPs urging them to back a new bill in favour of a customs union with the EU, believing this is the best way to boost growth and raise revenue, rather than tax rises.